Playing old DOS games with a default Windows setup can be a frustrating experience. The compatibility mode included with Windows wasn't designed for playing games and lacks certain compatibilities. A free, open-source DOS emulator called DOSBox was designed specifically for playing DOS games in Windows and gives you the ability to use your USB Sidewinder joystick in joystick-compatible DOS games.
Install DOSbox, which translates Windows drivers and settings for use with DOS-based games.
2
Plug in your USB Sidewinder. Open Control Panel to check your gamepad configuration. If your Sidewinder is listed, it's ready to use with DOSbox. If not, consult your Sidewinder's documentation for loading additional drivers.
3
Launch DOSBox, which will present you with a command prompt.
4
Type "mount c" at the command prompt, followed by the name of the folder where you store your DOS games. For example, if you store your DOS games in c:\old\games, type "mount c c:\old\games." Hit "Enter" on your keyboard.
5
Use the "cd" command to open the subfolder that holds your game. For example, "cd simcity" would open the folder c:\old\games\simcity. Once you're in the folder, type the executable for the game--for example, "simcity.exe."
6
Configure your game to use your Sidewinder joystick if necessary. Some games default to keyboard use but can use a joystick if you configure it do so. Look for the game's settings or configuration panel and change the control settings.
Tips & Warnings
Never mount your "C" drive as your default drive in DOSBbox. That could cause serious problems with some programs.
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